Navy SEAL Brian Bill's parents, Patricia and Michael Parry, stand beside a photo of their son as they speak during a ceremony at Government Center in Stamford, Conn., on Friday, Sept. 27, 2013, to rename a portion of Washington Blvd. in honor of their son, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2011. less

Navy SEAL Brian Bill's parents, Patricia and Michael Parry, stand beside a photo of their son as they speak during a ceremony at Government Center in Stamford, Conn., on Friday, Sept. 27, 2013, to rename a ... more

Navy SEAL Brian Bill's family stand beside a newly unveiled sign during a ceremony at Government Center in Stamford, Conn., on Friday, Sept. 27, 2013, renaming a portion of Washington Blvd. in honor of Bill, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2011. less

Navy SEAL Brian Bill's family stand beside a newly unveiled sign during a ceremony at Government Center in Stamford, Conn., on Friday, Sept. 27, 2013, renaming a portion of Washington Blvd. in honor of Bill, ... more

Navy SEAL Brian Bill's mother, Patricia Parry, unveils a sign during a ceremony at Government Center in Stamford, Conn., on Friday, Sept. 27, 2013, renaming a portion of Washington Blvd. in honor of her son, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2011.

Navy SEAL Brian Bill's mother, Patricia Parry, unveils a sign during a ceremony at Government Center in Stamford, Conn., on Friday, Sept. 27, 2013, renaming a portion of Washington Blvd. in honor of her son,

STAMFORD -- After Chief Petty Officer Brian Bill was gunned down in Afghanistan two years ago, Mayor Michael Pavia said he promised his parents that "Brian will never be forgotten in the city of Stamford."

Pavia and other officials were able to keep that promise Friday, as a section of Washington Boulevard was renamed the "U.S. Navy SEAL Brian R. Bill Memorial Highway," forever reminding drivers of the sacrifice he made for his country.

As his family sat in the front row at the dedication ceremony in the Government Center lobby, they said it was bittersweet.

"These are all very mixed emotions," said his stepfather, Dr. Michael Perry. "We're honored because the community recognizes someone who lived his life in defense of his country and the street will bear his name.

"Obviously, the tragedy of losing him is still very fresh in our minds."

The ceremony began with a video tribute of Bill, giving audience members a glimpse of the active life he led. It showed Bill playing sports, sledding in the snow, sitting on the beach, going to the prom, mountain climbing and skydiving. There were also pictures of him in his Boy Scout uniform and several in the military.

The mayor said he was killed in action on Aug. 6, 2011, along with other SEAL teammates, when their helicopter was shot down in Afghanistan. They were participating in a daring nighttime mission in the Wardak Province.

As a Stamford native, Pavia said it is important to honor Bill, whom he called "truly remarkable" resident. Bill went to school and played sports in the city and was a an Eagle Scout, the mayor said, noting that Bill used his talents for the good of others.

Shortly after Bill's death, Pavia said a committee was formed to figure out ways to memorialize the fallen soldier. He said it will still look for other ways to honor him.

State Sen. Carlos Leone, D-Stamford, said many politicians were involved in the project, with state Rep. Michael Molgano, R-Stamford, leading the way.

"He inspired us all, and this sign on our roadways will continue to inspire us," he said.

Molgano said it is important to recognize heros and that is exactly what Bill was -- a hero.

He unveiled one of two memorial roadway signs. Then Bill's stepfather and mother, Patricia, took the podium.

Parry said Bill's days were filled with hockey, soccer, swimming, tennis, fishing, with him enjoying "all kinds of outdoor activities."

"Brian was our hero and, in a sense, we're glad he was a hero to Stamford," he said.

Parry called Bill a "true patriot," saying he loved his country and God, and believed in what he was doing. He said he received several awards, including four Bronze Stars.

Briefly touching on one incident, he said Bill and his team had exchanged gunfire with the enemy to save another soldier during combat. He said Bill pulled the wounded soldier across the courtyard to safety, putting himself in danger.

"This year we voted for a bill to name this part of the street for Brian Bill," said state Sen. Gerry Fox, D-Stamford. "It was passed by the House and Senate and signed by the governor."